It's Monday! What Are You Reading?

It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? is a community of bloggers who link up to share what they are reading.  For more information and to find out what other bloggers are reading check out the host blogs: Teach Mentor Texts and Unleashing Readers.

Books I've Been Reading...

Elmore by Holly Hobbie

Elmore wishes he had friends, but, unfortunately, the other animals avoid him because of his quills. When Elmore comes up with a plan to put his quills to good use the animals start to see him in a different light. This book is a sweet story about friendship and accepting others. Elmore's resourcefulness is charming. The illustrations are warm and portray the emotions Elmore feels throughout the story. This is one I look forward to reading aloud to my first and second graders.

Absolutely Alfie and the Worst Best Sleepover by Sally Warner

This is the third book in the Absolutely Alfie series, but the first that I've read. Alfie is a second grader who is navigating the ups and downs of friendship. Lulu, who was once a close friend, is having a sleepover, but can only invite five of the thirteen girls in Alfie's class. Alfie really wants to be invited, but she also doesn't want anyone else to feel hurt or disappointed. Alfie's problem is true-to-life and relatable. She's a character who strives to do the right thing and with the support of her family is able to make things better between her and her friends. I received an advanced reader's copy of this book from the publisher at the National Council of Teachers of English Annual Conference. The book publishes in March.

Hurricane Child by Kheryn Callender

Caroline is a lonely child. Her mother left her and her father one day and never returned. She has no friends at the school she attends in St. Thomas. Caroline is dealing with the hurt caused by her mother's abandonment, but also the feelings she has developed for Kalinda, a new girl at her school. Caroline, in spite of her struggles with peers and family, is a character who shows strength as she tries to make sense of her situation. Callender's writing is beautiful, bringing the setting of the the U.S. Virgins Islands to life. I received an advanced reader's copy of this book from the publisher at the National Council of Teachers of English Annual Conference. The book publishes in March.